The Quezon City government granted a notice of award to Globe Telecoms for the provision of 176,000 data sim cards for the tablets to be distributed by the Schools Division Office (SDO) to all public junior and senior high school students in all districts.

The data sim cards which will be loaded with 10GB data monthly to allow students to access learning materials online will complement the 176,000 Samsung tablets that have been turned over to SDO.

Globe Telecoms also added security features to prevent access to certain content and gaming websites, ensuring that the tablets will be used only for learning.

According to Mayor Joy Belmonte, the initiative, done in partnership with Globe Telecoms, gives public school students access to modules and other learning materials under the blended system of learning.

“As part of Quezon City’s learning continuity programs, it is crucial for us to ensure that all students have access to education, most importantly during this period of disruption,” said Belmonte.

Also, the city government through Globe Labs, the telecom company’s innovative development arm, will be establishing 1,000 WiFi access points in key locations around the city to provide FREE internet connection not only to public school students but also to QC residents.

“We are fortunate to have Globe as a partner because we share the same goal,” she pointed out, adding that residents also get to enjoy one hour of free Internet connection every day through the access points.

As of Sept. 24, the City has tallied 432,629 enrollees in public elementary, special education, and junior and senior high schools who will be joining the opening of classes on October 5.

“We are glad to have exceeded our target enrollees despite the uncertainties caused by the pandemic,” said Belmonte.

Despite the situation, Belmonte assured parents that students will receive quality education through learning materials and other support programs provided to the Schools Division Office of the Department of Education-Quezon City.

The city government has also contributed to the printing and reproduction of 10,000,000 modules for all subject areas for elementary students and provided students with free school supplies, learning packets, and hygiene kits.